The businesses featured in our JK Salon Spotlight have achieved success by partnering with the team of professionals at tanning and wellness system manufacturer and worldwide industry innovation leader, JK Products & Services. This month, we talked to Mike and Alyssa Butsikaris, Co-Owners of Total Tan & Wellness in St. Clair, MI who had glowing praise for the many outstanding features of the Ergoline tanning systems, their relationship with Team JK and the ways it benefits their three-salon business.
IST: When and how did you find yourself in the tanning industry?
TT: “Mike and I have been lifelong recreational tanners and longtime customers at our first Total Tan & Wellness salon in St. Clair Shores, MI,” Alyssa shares. “The salon was originally named Total Tan Sun Salon and we became family friends with the previous owners. We would lightheartedly joke that when they were ready to retire, we would buy the business from them because it was such a beautiful and clean salon, we couldn’t see ourselves tanning and relaxing anywhere else. The time came in the fall of 2019 when they approached us, asking if we were serious about buying the business because they were serious about retirement!” The couple was in the midst of their careers, both working full-time jobs – Mike in steel manufacturing and Alyssa as a probation officer – but they knew they had to figure out how to make this business venture work. “While going through the pandemic and a significant and unexpected family loss, we began to reevaluate our priorities in life,” Alyssa adds. “On July 1, 2020 we officially closed the chapter of Total Tan Sun Salon and re-opened as Total Tan & Wellness.”
“At Experience JK 2023, we loved the camaraderie and networking opportunities! It was awesome to be able to ‘test run’ and use the equipment, too!”
– Mike Boutsikaris
IST: How have your tanners responded to the Ergoline systems offered at Total Tan & Wellness?
TT: “Since Mike and I have taken over the Total Tan Brand, Ergoline equipment has become a staple in our salons,” Alyssa states. “Because of the customer demand, we have continued to add new models to our salons each year.” Most recently, the couple installed their first Ergoline Vitality PLT3. “In the month of July, we recorded nearly 500 sessions in this single piece of equipment!” Alyssa exclaims. “It has hands down been a customer favorite. As consumers, Mike and I love the LED facials and customizable settings, and so do our salon guests! We are excited for the Ergoline LED technology to come!”
IST: What is your personal favorite Ergoline system?
TT: “Without question, it is the Ergoline PLT3,” Alyssa exclaims. “The entire experience is comfortable and relaxing while the Pure Light Technology provides incredible results.”
IST: How has the JK/Ergoline team helped you grow your business?
TT: “Mike and I credit the entire JK/Ergoline team with being instrumental in the growth of Total Tan & Wellness,” Alyssa says. “I cannot say enough good things about the team, from their kindness to their incredible industry knowledge. Hans (Both) has been impeccable with his service in getting us our equipment and helping us grow, location after location. And Terah (Shear) of JK Light is a true gem – she offers knowledge on everything from products to lamps to regular maintenance on all of our tanning systems.”
IST: What advice would you give to new salon owners?
TT: “This is an amazing industry to be in!” the couple says. “We are believers in embracing start-up costs by investing in state-of-the-art equipment – and of course, we believe in JK Products! The investment may hurt a bit in the beginning, but the customer satisfaction and loyalty it will bring are unmatched!”
The Total Tan & Wellness Lineup
Ergoline Tanning Systems |
Other Services |
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